[2026] FIFA World Cup | Historic Theme Songs That Colored the Tournament
The Soccer World Cup, a festival held once every four years.
On match days, many people find themselves glued to the screen at home or in sports bars, passionately cheering on their teams.
Alongside the thrilling matches, the theme songs also become a major talking point.
In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of classic tracks that have colored past World Cups.
You might just remember those legendary matches and feel your heart race again!
We’ll also cover songs used in Japanese TV broadcasts and official tournament anthems, so enjoy it all the way to the end!
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[2026] FIFA World Cup | Theme Songs That Colored the Tournament (41–50)
The Cup of LifeRicky Martin
This song, with its passionate Latin rhythms and dynamic melodies, has captivated listeners around the world.
Brimming with heat and energy, it’s the perfect number to color the grand festival of soccer.
Released in 1998, it topped the charts in many countries.
Chosen as the official song of that year’s FIFA World Cup, it became an iconic presence of the tournament.
Ricky Martin’s soaring vocals powerfully express the challenge of chasing dreams and the desire for victory.
This work is perfect not only for watching sports, but also for moments when you want to get motivated or lift your spirits.
Even if you’re not a soccer fan, it’s sure to be a track that makes your heart dance.
BoomAnastacia
Anastacia is a female artist from Chicago, known for her exceptionally powerful vocals and widely respected by critics for her vocal projection.
One of her signature works, Boom, was used as the theme song for the World Cup held simultaneously in South Korea and Japan in 2010.
The track is crafted as pop infused with the essence of soul music, and her soaring high-note shouts are breathtaking.
Some phrases also feature African-inspired melodies, making it a piece that incorporates musical elements from around the world.
buzzer beaterSMAP
“buzzer beater” is a track by SMAP that was included as the B-side of their 39th single “Dear WOMAN,” released in 2006.
In 2006, it was selected as the theme song for sports broadcasts on TV Asahi, including coverage of the FIFA World Cup.
The title “buzzer beater” is said to be derived from terminology used in basketball and ice hockey.
The intro features a soulful bassline and a lively horn section that is sure to get you pumped up.
If you haven’t heard it yet, definitely give it a listen!
STARTLiNEYaita Hitomi
The song chosen as the support track for Fuji TV’s soccer coverage during the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany was Hitomi Yaida’s 15th single, “STARTLiNE.” A rearranged version of “STARTLiNE” was included on the 2006 album “IT’S A NEW DAY.” It’s a simple rock tune with a rock ’n’ roll vibe that naturally gets you pumped up as you listen.
Un’estate italianaGianna Nannini＆Edoardo Bennato
The 1990 World Cup was held in Italy.
It was around the time when the Japan national team fell just short and swallowed their tears.
The squad included Mr.
Ihara, Mr.
Hashiratani, Mr.
Ramos, and Gon Nakayama—and of course, Kazu was there too.
He was 22 at the time, so it really feels like ages ago.
The official song “Un’estate italiana” was titled “Italian Summer” in Japanese, and it brings back memories of the fierce battles of the World Cup.
The lyrics overflow with love for soccer, telling the story of a boy aiming for the goal.
The many voices layered in the chorus are also moving.
If you haven’t heard it yet, definitely give it a listen!
We Are The ChampionsQueen
With a composition that blends the stately forward drive of a march with the gentle warmth of a ballad, this song expresses the pride of overcoming life’s trials and the resolve to keep fighting alongside comrades.
Featured on the album “News of the World,” it presents a grand, moving drama through Freddie Mercury’s exceptional expressive power.
Since its release in October 1977, it has been beloved around the world as a victory anthem in sports and was even selected as an official theme song for the 1994 FIFA World Cup.
When you need the courage to face adversity or want to share joy with friends, it will surely resonate in your heart.
We Are OnePitbull ft. Jennifer Lopez & Claudia Leitte
We Are One, the song that gained popularity as the official anthem of the 2014 World Cup.
It’s a track by Pitbull featuring globally popular singer Jennifer Lopez and Brazil’s national star Claudia Leitte.
Since the host country was Brazil, they likely chose Latin artists.
As you can tell from the lineup, the piece has a Latin flavor, and certain phrases also evoke musical styles like house and samba.